What Are Baby Hammocks?
When it comes to accessories and baby products, you really find so many options. One of the most interesting products are baby hammocks. While they’re very practical, especially in the first months of the child’s life, are they really necessary and useful?
Baby hammocks, also known as baby rocker chairs or baby relax chairs, are padded chairs that are supported by an “air” base.
Therefore, the baby can lean and swing. That makes it look like a kind of bag held by a simple structure, like a beach chair. It usually has harnesses or a belt to hold babies well and prevent them from falling.
Purpose of Baby Hammocks
One of the most important advantages of this accessory is that, unlike in cribs, babies can see what is happening around them. It is an excellent and safe way to integrate the child into family activities.
Hammocks for babies can be used from the first few moments of life. When tilted, the baby isn’t sitting and his head rests on the back of it. This allows the neck to not have to support the weight of the baby’s head.
Characteristics of Baby Hammocks
There are many different types of hammocks for babies on the market. When choosing, it’s always important to take into account the particular characteristics of each one. There are different types and the elements they contain may vary from one model to another.
Types of Seats
For maximum comfort, it is recommended that the hammock seat be well padded and soft. You can also find hammocks for babies with rigid seats, which are usually made of plastic and very easy to clean.
Fastening System
All hammocks for babies have this feature, which is, without a doubt, fundamental. Each one has a fastening system, either harnesses or belts. This way, they can be adjusted so the baby cannot fall out of the chair.
Support Base
The base of support of the hammock can be done several ways. Some are static, others four-legged. Movement isn’t possible in any of these models.
On the other hand, hammocks with rocking chairs do offer movement, swinging the baby. It’s one more idea to entertain the child.
Activities Center
Nowadays, many hammocks for babies have an activity center. It’s a support in the form of an arch that crosses the hammock. This element is used to hang toys within the baby’s reach so he can see them and play with them.
The activity center is usually very useful when babies begin to interact with the elements in their environment, when they can grab and play with things in their surroundings.
Hood or Awning
The hammock awning is another important feature. Although not all hammocks for babies have awnings, they turn out to be very useful when you want a little privacy for the sleeping baby.
In addition, it protects them from the sun, wind, and cold if you take them for a walk.
Safety Issues for Baby Hammocks
It is important to know that baby hammocks can only be placed on the ground, because the hammock moves as the baby does.
If it’s placed on high surfaces, there is a risk of falling. Therefore, we must pay special attention to this point: it’s dangerous to leave hammocks on tables, chairs and even in the car.
In terms of safety, it’s very important to pay attention to the system for securing baby hammocks. Make sure the harnesses are adjustable to perfectly contain the child. In this way, you can best avoid accidents.
You also have to check that you have a security lock so that little ones cannot let themselves out.
Finally, it’s necessary to confirm that the hammock reclines. It must have a recline locking system, which allows it to be left firmly in the desired position.
And as with all baby accessories, it’s recommended not to abuse their use. Babies must move their entire body to develop their motor skills and intelligence.